The results of 2008 CSLAP are complete. For the most part, things were pretty average. Phosphorus was lower than usual in the early samples but as usual increased as the summer population increases. This happens every year showing that the actions of "people" continue to have a negative impact on the lake. This past year, the abundance of geese might have had something to do with it. Water clarity was also very good but decreased as the summer went on. Also, I received an email from Scott Kishbaugh, DEC Lake Mgt, who is also the director of the CSLAP program. He noticed, for some reason, Melody Lake chlorophyll reading seem to increase steadily for 4-5 years, then drop significantly, then repeat the cycle. This has happened 1988-1991, 1997-2001, and 2005-present (with a slight drop in 2006). Water samples were not taken in the years 1992-1996. This does not seem to be consistent with weather, or other lakes in the local area. I will look through my notes to see if anything happened that might have made a difference. In the meantime, he will continue to look over Melody Lake data from the past.I did pick up a typo in the report (FYI). In the general summary (pg 6) and again in figure 28 (pg 76), he notes that our grass carp stocking started in 1987. This should be 1997. I pointed it out but it's not worth correcting. We should correct it on any copy we might print.The entire report is 115 pages. I am printing a copy for my records because it is easier to read. I suggest the board pays to print out at least one copy to make available to anyone that might want to look it over. There are a few pages with color graphs which must be printed in color to make any sense.The entire report may be viewed on the NYSFOLA website at:If I can answer any questions regarding the program or the results, please let me know.
Bob